Last night’s practice at Rising Above Wrestling (RAW) Rochester was one of those moments that reminds us why this program exists.
Without fanfare or spotlight, two Division I wrestlers, both home in the Greater Rochester area for the holidays, walked into our practice to give back to the next generation. For our athletes, many of whom are just beginning their wrestling journey, it was a powerful reminder that big dreams can start on small mats.
Those guest coaches were Nolan Liess, a Division I wrestler at Harvard University, and Carter Schubert, a standout at the University of Oklahoma who is currently ranked seventh in the NCAA at 174 pounds.
For a brand-new inner-city youth wrestling program, moments like this are extraordinary.
RAW Rochester is still in its early stages, but nights like this confirm we’re building something special. We didn’t recruit these athletes. There were no appearances fees. No press releases.
They showed up because the wrestling community takes care of its own.
When Division I athletes choose to spend their limited free time coaching kids, it sends a message louder than any speech:
You belong here. Your dreams matter. This path is possible.
For young wrestlers in Rochester, especially those from underserved neighborhoods, seeing elite college athletes working through drills beside them makes the sport real. College wrestling stops being something they watch online and starts becoming something they can see themselves in.
Youth wrestling programs, particularly urban and inner-city wrestling initiatives, are proven to create impact far beyond wins and losses. Wrestling teaches:
When high-level wrestlers volunteer their time, they reinforce those lessons with lived experience. Carter and Nolan didn’t just teach technique, they modeled humility, leadership, and what it means to give back.
That matters.
RAW Rochester has been fortunate to receive overwhelming support from the local wrestling community, coaches, former wrestlers, parents, and volunteers who believe in using the sport as a vehicle for opportunity.
This kind of support is how strong wrestling cultures are built. It’s how kids stay engaged, stay off the sidelines, and stay connected to positive role models.
And it’s how a small program becomes a lasting one.
Carter Schubert and Nolan Liess were only home for the holidays. Their visit may have lasted one practice.
But for our athletes?
That memory will last a lifetime.
Years from now, one of these kids may step onto a college mat remembering the night a Division I wrestler believed in them enough to show up. That’s how cycles change. That’s how communities grow stronger, one practice at a time.
At RAW Rochester, we’re proud to be building something rooted in opportunity, mentorship, and community support. Nights like this remind us that we’re not doing it alone.
The wrestling world is watching, and stepping in.
© Rising Above Wrestling. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy
1150 University Ave, Rochester, NY, United States, New York
